The runway at Kim Ovitz was a thin layer of slippery red clay; the models crept down it barefoot in gauzy gowns that looked bleached by the sun. Light-as-air trousers and drapey cardigans, windblown hoods over long skirts, and macrame detail all added to the vibe.

Colors ranged from sand to pale nude to eggshell, paper, and bright white; fabrics included linen, wet jersey, silk and chiffon. More structured versions followed. Deep turquoise (water!) provided a welcome shot of color. The effect was a collection as mysterious and beautiful as the desert’s formidable landscape.